It feels like everything is getting more expensive these days. That’s because inflation has remained higher than normal for longer than expected, impacting the costs of goods, services, and more. And with rising costs all around you, you’re probably questioning: is now the right time to buy a home?

Here’s the good news. Owning a home is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the rising costs that come with inflation.

A Fixed Mortgage Protects You from Rising Housing Costs

One of the key benefits of homeownership is that when you buy a home with a fixed-rate mortgage, your most significant monthly expense — your mortgage payment — stabilizes. Your payment could rise slightly as your homeowner’s insurance and property taxes shift. But no matter what happens with inflation, your principal and interest payments won’t change.

That’s not the case if you rent. Rent tends to rise over time and usually goes up even faster than the inflation rate. Just look at the data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) and the Census Bureau (see graph below):

So, while renters face higher costs year after year, homeowners with a fixed mortgage rate lock in their monthly payments, making it easier to budget no matter what happens with inflation.

Home Prices Typically Rise Faster Than Inflation

Another big reason homeownership is an excellent hedge against inflation is that home values tend to appreciate over time — often at a higher rate than inflation, according to data from the BEA and Fannie Mae (see graph below):

That makes real estate one of the strongest long-term investments during rising prices. While inflation can chip away at the value of cash savings, real estate typically holds or grows in value, allowing you to build wealth.

On the other hand, renting offers no protection against inflation. It does the opposite — when inflation drives up costs, landlords often pass those increases onto tenants through higher rents.

That means as a renter, you’re continually paying more without gaining any financial benefit. But as a homeowner, rising prices work in your favor by increasing the value of your home and growing your equity over time.

And with experts forecasting continued home price growth, you’re making an investment that usually grows in value and should outperform inflation in the years ahead.

In short, a fixed-rate mortgage protects your budget, and home price appreciation grows your net worth. That’s why homeownership is a strong hedge against inflation.

Bottom Line

Inflation can make everyday expenses unpredictable, but owning a home gives you stability. Unlike rent, your monthly mortgage payment stays the same over time. Plus, the value of your home is likely to increase after you buy.

How would having a fixed housing payment change how you budget for the future?

Some homeowners hesitate to sell because they have unanswered questions. But often, their concerns are based on misconceptions, not facts. If they’d just talked to an agent about it, they’d see that these doubts aren’t necessarily a hurdle.

If uncertainty keeps you from moving, it’s time to get the real answers—the ones you deserve. And to take the pressure off, you don’t have to ask the questions because here’s the data that answers them.

1. Is It Even a Good Idea To Move Right Now? 

If you own a home already, you may be tempted to wait because you don’t want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate on your next house. But your move may be a lot more feasible than you think, and that’s because of how much your house has likely grown in value.

Think about it. Do you know anyone in your neighborhood who’s sold their house recently? If so, did you hear what it sold for? The number may surprise you with how much home values have gone up in recent years. According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the typical homeowner has gained $147,000 in housing wealth in the last five years alone.

That’s significant – and when you sell, that can give you what you need to fund your next move.

2. Will I Be Able To Find a Home I Like? 

If this is on your mind, it’s probably because you remember how hard it was to find a home over the past few years. But in today’s market, it isn’t as challenging.

Data from Realtor.com shows how much inventory has increased – it’s up nearly 25% compared to this time last year (see graph below):

Even though inventory is below normal, it’s improved significantly in the past year. And the best part is, experts say it’ll grow another 10 to 15% this year. That means you have more options for your move – and the best chance in years to find a home you love.

3. Are Buyers Still Buying?

And last, if you’re worried no one’s buying with rates and prices where they are right now, here’s some perspective that can help. At the same time, there weren’t as many sales last year at the same time as there’d be in a regular market; roughly 4.24 million homes still sold (not including new construction), according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). The expectation is that the number will rise in 2025. But even if we only match how many homes sold last year, here’s what that looks like.

• 4.24 million homes ÷ 365 days in a year = 11,616 homes sell each day
• 11,616 homes ÷ 24 hours in a day = 484 homes sell per hour
• 484 homes ÷ 60 minutes = 8 homes sell every minute

Think about that. Just in the time it took you to read this, 8 homes sold. Let this reassure you – the market isn’t at a standstill. Every day, thousands of people buy, looking for homes like yours.

Bottom Line

When you’re ready to discuss what’s on your mind, I have the answers you need. In the meantime, tell me: what’s holding you back from making your move?

Spring is the busiest season in the housing market. It’s the time of year when buyers are most active – that means it’s when homes sell faster and for top dollar. If you’ve already got a move on your mind, why not list this spring and take advantage of the added buyer demand?

Since spring is just around the corner, now’s the time to start getting your house market-ready. You’ve got just over a month to do the prep work. And while that may sound like a decent amount of time, it will go by quickly. And you won’t want to rush through this important task – especially this year.

The Right Repairs Will Matter More This Spring

Right now, two things are true. There are more homes on the market than there have been in years. And buyers are being extra selective. That combination means you must invest time and effort in making strategic repairs. Many homeowners have already jumped on this work.

In the 2025 Outlook for Home Remodeling, Carlos Martin, Director of the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, explains:

“. . . homeowners are slowly but surely expanding the pace and scope of projects compared to the last couple years.”

The most common projects they tackle are replacing water heaters, HVAC units, and flooring. According to home improvement data from the Census, energy efficiency is also a key consideration.

What To Prioritize as You Plan Ahead

But just because that’s what other homeowners are doing, it doesn’t mean that’s what you have to tackle. Think about what you’d want to see if you were a buyer. Focus on quick wins that are easy to knock out with your time – but don’t ignore key repairs, especially ones you think could turn off buyers.

While big-ticket items like replacing an old roof or outdated flooring may seem daunting, they can pay off – mainly if you focus on projects with the best return on investment (ROI).

An agent’s expertise is key in narrowing your list to what’s worth it. They know what buyers in your area want, and they also have data like this report from Zonda to guide you on which updates have the best ROI (see green in the graph below):

That’s why it’s so important to talk to a local real estate agent before you dive into any repairs. Bankrate puts it best:

“As a seller, it’s smart to be prepared and control whatever factors you’re able to. Things like hiring a great real estate agent and maximizing your home’s online appeal can translate into a smoother sale — and more money in the bank.”

It’s not too early to partner with an agent. By starting now, you’ve still got time to space the work and find any contractors you need to do the job. If you wait until spring to roll up your sleeves, you risk running out of time – and that means your house may be overshadowed by others who are more buyer-ready.

Bottom Line

If you plan to sell this spring, it’s time to start tackling your to-do list. But before you get started, let’s connect. That way, you can ensure you spend your time and budget on projects that’ll pay off in the long run.

Send me a list of what’s on your to-do list, and we can prioritize them together.

If you’re like many aspiring homebuyers, there’s a significant hurdle standing in your way — the cost of living. From groceries to gas, eggs, and just about everything else, prices have gone up. And that rings true for home prices, too.

But even when everything seems expensive, there are still ways to make homeownership more than a wish list item. You may need to think differently about where you plan to buy.

Think of Your First Home as a Stepping Stone

One of the biggest misconceptions among buyers is that their first home has to be their forever home or that it must meet all their wants right out of the gate. In reality, it’s just a starting point.

Once you own a home, you build equity, which grows over time as home prices rise. Down the road, if you want to move to a larger space, a better location, or both, the equity you’ve gained can help you do that.

So, rather than waiting until you can afford your dream home in your ideal neighborhood, consider starting with something that works for now.

Expand Your Search To Find More Affordable Options

If high home prices in your favorite area hold you back, it’s time to cast a wider net. By keeping an open mind and being flexible with location, you may be surprised at what’s possible within your budget. Many buyers find success by looking in surrounding areas – and some even choose to move out of state.

According to a report from Realtor.com, these are some of the best markets for first-time homebuyers this year (see chart below):

Of course, moving to a different state isn’t for everyone – and isn’t a necessity. The right agent can help you find more cost-effective options wherever you are.

If you want to stay local, looking just outside your preferred neighborhood could help you find an affordable place close to your favorite restaurants, shops, and activities. Sometimes, moving as little as 10 minutes away makes a big difference.

The best way to see what’s available is to work with a real estate agent who understands the local market and can help you identify hidden gems nearby. An agent can point you to communities you may not have considered with lower price tags now and are steadily gaining value and appeal. That way, you can buy your first home and be set up to achieve success over the years.

Bottom Line

Today’s cost of living is a challenge for many homebuyers. But by exploring different areas and working with a knowledgeable agent, you can take that first step toward owning a home — and building equity for your future.

How far outside of your area would you look to make homeownership happen? Let’s connect to chat through your options.

This could be the year to sell your house – and here’s why. According to a recent NerdWallet survey, 15% of people plan to buy a home this year. That’s a record high for this survey (see graph below):

Here’s why this is such a big deal. The percentage has been hovering between 9-11% since 2020. This recent increase shows buyer demand hasn’t disappeared – if anything, it indicates there’s pent-up demand ready to return to the market.

That doesn’t mean the floodgates are opening and there will be a massive wave of buyers like we saw a few years ago. But this does signal there’ll be more activity this year than last.

At least some buyers who put their plans on hold over the past few years will jump back in. Whether they’re feeling more confident about moving, have finally saved up enough to buy, or can’t wait any longer, this is the year they aim to take the plunge.

According to that same NerdWallet survey, more than half (54%) of those potential buyers have already started looking at homes online.

That’s a good indicator that several buyers will be looking during the peak homebuying season this spring. So, if you find the right agent to ensure your house is prepped, priced, and marketed well, you can get it in front of them.

Bottom Line

More people will move this year, and with the right strategy, you can ensure that your house is among the first they consider.

What do you think these buyers will love most about your house?

Let’s discuss it and ensure it’s front and center in your listing.

Over the past few years, home prices skyrocketed. That’s been frustrating for buyers, leaving many wondering if they’d ever get a shot at owning a home. But here’s some welcome news: that whirlwind pace of home price growth is slowing down.

Home Prices Are Rising at a Healthy Pace

Home prices are increasing at the national level but at a much more moderate, regular pace. For example, in November, the year-over-year increase in home prices was just 3.8% nationally, according to Case-Shiller. That’s a far cry from the double-digit spikes that occurred in 2021 and 2022 (see graph below):

This normal home price growth might make home-buying more attainable for many buyers. You won’t face the same sticker shock or rapid price jumps that made it hard to plan your purchase just a few years ago.

At the same time, steady growth means the home you buy today will likely appreciate over time.

Prices Vary from Market to Market

While the national story is one of moderate price growth, it’s important to remember that all real estate is local. Some markets are seeing more vigorous growth, while others are cooling off or even seeing slight declines. As Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, notes:

“Regionally, variations persist, as some affordable areas – including smaller metros in the Midwest — remain in high demand and continue to see upward home price pressures.”

Meanwhile, other regions saw slight month-over-month decreases in November, according to Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) data (see graph below):

What does this mean for you? It’s crucial to understand what’s happening in your local market. A national average can’t tell the whole story. That’s where working with a local real estate agent can help. They have the tools and expertise to give you the complete picture of what’s happening in your area and how to plan for that in your move.

Bottom Line

Home prices are growing more manageable, and working with a local real estate agent can help you navigate the ups and downs of your specific market.

How have changing home prices impacted your plans to buy? Let’s talk about it.

There’s no denying affordability is tough right now. But that doesn’t mean you have to put your plans to buy a home on the back burner.

If you’re willing to roll up your sleeves (or hire someone who will), buying a house that needs some work could open the door to homeownership. Here’s everything you need to know so you can decide if this is the right move for you.

What’s a Fixer-Upper?

A fixer-upper is a home that’s livable but requires some renovations. Think cosmetic updates like wallpaper removal and new flooring or more extensive repairs like replacing a roof or updating plumbing.

While fixer-uppers need a little TLC, here’s why they may be worth considering, especially right now:

1. They Usually Have a Lower Price Point. Because of the repairs involved, these homes are usually less expensive upfront than move-in-ready options. According to a survey from StorageCafe, fixer-uppers come with price tags that are about 29% lower, making them a solid choice if you’re having trouble finding anything in your budget.
2. Less Competition. When you’re ready to make an offer, you’re less likely to deal with competition from other buyers who are focused on move-in-ready homes.
3. Build Equity Faster. From choosing how to redo the floors to picking which cabinets you want in the kitchen, a fixer-upper allows you to design a space that fits your needs and style. And with smart renovations, you can increase your home’s value faster and potentially see a big return on your investment.

As The Mortgage Reports notes:

“If you’re a house hunter who’s not afraid of sweat equity, buying a fixer-upper could be your ticket to homeownership. Doing so could lead to big savings, even in some of the nation’s largest and most popular housing markets. Plus, adding the right features could help your investment.”

What To Know About Buying a Fixer-Upper

The possibilities that come with a fixer-upper are exciting, but there are a few things to think about first.

• Do You Have a game plan? Consider if you have the time, skills, or budget to tackle renovations. Be honest about what you can handle yourself, what you’ll need to hire out, and if a fixer-upper is truly a good fit for your lifestyle. Remember, you’ll likely be living in a construction zone at least for a little while.
• Prioritize the Repairs and Upgrades: Don’t stress yourself out thinking you’ve got to do all the work upfront. Space out renovations over time in a way that makes sense for your budget and what’s most important to tackle first.
• Location Matters: You want the money you’re spending to fix up a house to be worth the investment. So, make sure the home is in an area with increasing home values and amenities locals love, like parks and restaurants.
• Get a Home Inspection: Hiring an inspector to do a thorough inspection before you buy is a must. What they find will help you understand what needs to be updated, renovation costs, and if it’s a project you want to take on.
• Budget for Surprises: Renovations rarely go as planned. So, be sure to set aside extra money to cover things like extended repair timelines, an increase in the cost of materials, or other unknowns that may come up.

Talk to a Lender About Financing Options: There are some renovation mortgages designed for homes that need a little work. But they may have requirements like spending and timeline limits, so talk to a trusted lender to understand the fine print.

Bottom Line

Fixer-uppers aren’t for everyone, but if you’re open to doing a bit of work, they can be a great way to overcome today’s affordability hurdles and find something in your budget.

With the right mindset and careful planning, you could turn a less-than-perfect house into the perfect home for you.

If you found a fixer-upper that fits your budget and goals, would you consider taking the plunge? If so, let’s connect to explore what’s out there.

Having the right strategies and expectations is key if you want to sell your house. But some sellers haven’t adjusted to where the market is today. They’re not factoring in more homes for sale or in buyers being more selective with their budgets. And those sellers are making some costly mistakes.

Here’s a quick rundown of sellers’ three most common missteps and how partnering with an expert agent can help you avoid every single one.

1. Pricing the Home Too High

According to a survey by John Burns Real Estate Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM), real estate agents agree the #1 thing sellers struggle with right now is setting the right price for their house (see graph below):

And more often than not, homeowners tend to overprice their listings. If you aren’t up to speed on what’s happening in your local market, you may give in to the temptation to price high so you can have as much wiggle room as possible to negotiate. You don’t want to do this.

Today’s buyers are more cautious due to higher rates and tight budgets, and a price that feels out of reach will scare them off. And if no one’s looking at your house, how will it sell? This is precisely why more sellers are having to make price cuts.

To avoid this headache, trust your agent’s expertise from day 1. A great agent will be able to tell you what your neighbor’s house just sold for and how that impacts the value of your home.

2. Skipping Repairs

Another common mistake is trying to avoid doing work on your house. That leaky faucet or squeaky door might not bother you, but minor maintenance issues can be red flags to buyers. They may assume those little flaws are signs of more significant problems — and it could cost you when offers come in lower or buyers ask for concessions. As Investopedia says:

“Sellers who do not clean and stage their homes throw money down the drain. . . Failing to do these things can reduce your sales price and may also prevent you from getting a sale at all. If you haven’t attended to minor issues, such as a broken doorknob or dripping faucet, a potential buyer may wonder whether the house has larger, costlier issues that haven’t been addressed either.”

The solution? Work with your agent to prioritize anything you must tackle before the photographer arrives. These minor upgrades can pay off big when it’s time to sell.

3. Refusing To Negotiate

Buyers today are feeling the pinch of high home prices and mortgage rates. With affordability that tight, they may come in with an offer that’s lower than you want to see. Don’t take it personally. Instead, focus on the end goal: selling your house. Your agent can help you negotiate confidently without letting emotions cloud your judgment.

At the same time, with more homes on the market, buyers have options — and with that comes more negotiating power. They may ask for repairs, closing cost assistance, or other concessions. Be prepared to have these conversations. Again, lean on your agent to guide you. Sometimes, a tiny compromise can seal the deal without derailing your bottom line. As U.S. News Real Estate explains:

“If you’ve received an offer for your house that isn’t quite what you’d hoped it would be, expect to negotiate . . . the only way to come to a successful deal is to make sure the buyer also feels like he or she benefits . . . consider offering to cover some of the buyer’s closing costs or agree to a credit for a minor repair the inspector found.”

The Biggest Mistake of All? Not Using a Real Estate Agent

Do you notice anything? Partnering with an agent helps prevent each of these mistakes from happening. That makes selling your house without an agent’s help the biggest mistake.

Bottom Line

Start with the right plan and agent to avoid these common mistakes. Let’s connect so you don’t fall into any of these traps.